Crikey continues its merry investigation into the history of political two-timers -- check out part one here. Today it goes all the way to the top.

Joe Lyons

Joe Lyons was postmaster-general in James Scullin's Labor government when the depression hit in 1930 and would soon be made acting treasurer, after the resignation of Ted Theodore. Formulating an appropriate response to this disaster would end up splitting the party. Lyons' conservative approach  -- he favoured cutting public spending and salaries, providing more credit for business -- put him at odds with Scullin, who favoured Theodore. Theodore was promptly reappointed to the treasury.